I began my professional career as a dental officer in the United Sates Army where I completed a 1-year AEGD residency. In addition to advanced dental skills, I also learned the qualities of respect, diligence, and selfless service. These attributes served me well as I transitioned into a staff dentist position at the Veterans Health Administration in San Antonio, Texas. The soldiers I treat now have helped me to expand my dental practice to involve more complex treatment planning and long-term management. I take personal responsibility for my patients and their dental care. My patients understand that, and they appreciate it. I coordinate simultaneous appointments across multiple chairs to maximize efficiency while still ensuring each patient feels due priority. I have learned to provide the various procedures with diligence and skill, but more importantly, I have developed a knack for helping my patients to relax and enjoy the experience. This ability has proved invaluable in an environment where my patients often struggle physically, mentally and emotionally.